What does the term "duty to inform" imply for legal practitioners?

The term "duty to inform" for legal practitioners primarily means that they have an obligation to keep their clients informed about all significant facts that could impact the clients' decisions regarding their legal matters. This includes disclosing relevant information about the case, potential outcomes, risks involved, and any other details that may affect the client’s choices.

This duty is rooted in the ethical obligation of lawyers to act in their clients’ best interests, ensuring that clients make informed decisions with a full understanding of the implications of their legal situation. By maintaining clear and open communication, legal practitioners help empower clients to participate actively in their legal processes, fostering trust and transparency in the attorney-client relationship. This actively contributes to the overall integrity of the legal system.

Recognizing the importance of this duty emphasizes how essential it is for legal practitioners to prioritize their clients' understanding and engagement over merely advancing their own agenda or protecting privileged information. This client-centric approach enhances the quality and effectiveness of legal representation.